Technical Specialist - Regional

Role Overview

The Regional Technical Specialist will play a key role in supporting the expansion and optimization of Oregon’s recycling systems under the Recycling Modernization Act. This position will provide technical and operational support for the development and implementation of RecycleOn Centers managed by the PRO, help monitor the progress of system expansion investments at the local level, assist with regional collection events, and engage with local stakeholders to promote education and outreach initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

System Expansion Support

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to identify and implement opportunities for expanding recycling infrastructure across Oregon.
• Provide support for local engagement on system expansion funding and monitoring performance of investments. 

RecycleOn Center Operations

• Support the setup, maintenance, and performance monitoring of PRO-managed RecycleOn Centers.
• Assist in troubleshooting operational issues and coordinating with local service providers.
• Provide technical support as needed on site selection, equipment needs, and operational logistics for new and existing RecycleOn Centers.
• Assist with annual site audits and ongoing site technical assistance.

Collection Event Assistance

• Provide team support for planning regional collection events.
• Assist with on-site support, including logistics coordination, stakeholder engagement, and data collection.

Education & Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with local governments, community organizations, and service providers.
• Represent CAA in regional meetings and forums to promote program goals and gather feedback.
• Support the development and delivery of educational materials and outreach campaigns tailored to local audiences.

Reporting & Compliance

• Assist in compiling data and preparing reports related to regional operations, performance metrics, and stakeholder feedback.
• Ensure activities align with Oregon’s EPR regulatory requirements and CAA’s program plan.
• Other job related duties as assigned

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to work cross functionally with internal teams (operations, analytics, materials management) and external partners such as local governments and service providers functionally with internal teams (operations, analytics, materials management) and external partners such as local governments and service providers.
• Understanding recycling system infrastructure, including facility needs, collection systems, and performance monitoring.
• Ability to monitor system expansion investments, track performance, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to operate in a dynamic environment with competing priorities and evolving infrastructure needs.
• Knowledge of site selection, equipment needs, and operational logistics for collection centers.
• Ability to represent CAA in regional meetings, forums, and public settings, communicating program goals clearly.
• Ability to compile operational data, prepare reports, and track performance metrics for regional activities.

Qualifications

• Must reside in the region the position is supporting.
  • Northwest Regional Specialist: Washington, Multnomah, Tillamook, Hood River, Clatsop, Columbia, Yamhill, Marion, Polk 
• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Public Administration, Engineering, or related field. Equivalent professional experience will also be considered.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in solid waste, recycling, or environmental program implementation.
• Strong understanding of recycling systems, EPR frameworks, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to travel regionally across Oregon as needed. Must have a valid driver’s license and vehicle. Mileage reimbursement is offered. Candidate should be able to spend up to 25% of their time traveling in the field.
• Experience working with local governments and community organizations is preferred.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Location: Oregon (Remote with regional travel),residing in one of the following counties: Washington, Multnomah, Tillamook, Hood River, Clatsop, Columbia, Yamhill, Marion, Polk 
• Pay Rate: Based on a variety of factors in accordance with applicable law including the successful candidate’s relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Reports To: Program Operations Manager

Circular Action Alliance is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), national origin, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you require accommodation as part of the application process, please contact careers@circularaction.org.